Radio Days

Radio Days

ASIN: B0009VI52A

Track Listings

1. Opening Theme

2. Stardust

3. Lone Star

4. Empty Chair

5. Good Man Is Hard to Find

6. Narration: Take Me Back to Tulsa

7. Got You on My Mind

8. I Knew the Moment I Lost You

9. Lone Star Gar

10. My Life's Been a Pleasure

11. Narration

12. Tuzedo Junction

13. Wednesday Night Waltz

14. Closing Theme

Tracks:

Hello Love
Loyalty Days
Whoopi Ti-Yi-Yo
Sons Of Knute - Loyalty Oath
Sons Of Knute - March
Some Words From Powdermilk Biscuits
Powdermilk Biscuit Theme
The Young Lutheran's Guide To The Orchestra
The Radio Announcer
The Lake Wobegon Hymn
Song Of The Exiles

Amazon.com

"Most Lutherans aren't musicians; they're choir members," says Prairie Home Companion creator Garrison Keillor. In "The Young Lutheran's Guide to the Orchestra," he further comments, "Cellists seem like such nice people. The way they put their arms around their instruments, they look like parents at a daycare center, zipping up snowsuits." Such is the droll National Public Radio humor he embodies; listeners either adore or disparage him for his pedestrian slice of Midwestern nostalgia. Here in 1989, in front of a hometown audience with the majestic Minnesota Orchestra, Keillor holds court, bearish baritone intermingling with French horn and strings. He dishes on everything from patriotism to Powdermilk Biscuits to orchestral instruments in the context of Christianity and good Christians, particularly that ever dry hot-dish-eating Lutheran sect in the Minneapolis region. Keillor is like big brother home from college, poking fun at his family upon seeing them with fresh eyes. Delightful. --Paige La Grone

Customer Reviews:

Lake Wobegon Loyaly Days.......2007-02-13

This record by Garrison Keillor is both subtle and also hilarious. The anthem of the Sons of Knute stands out as a comic masterpiece. It is closely follwed in quality by the tale of the Radio Announcer which incorporates Garrison Keillor's brand of quiet desperation with comic genius. The record audience is clearly Keillor addicts and completely in his thrall, as the listener soon is too.
One can play this record over and over and still find new subleties in its construction. This is a rare American comic genius who can pull quiet fun at America in the kindest way.

Garrison keillor.......2006-08-14

I have been a big fan of Garrison for about 20 years. I loved his first works. This last one I purchased 'Lake Wobegon Loyalty Days has too much music and not enough story telling, which he does best.

Patricia Corbari

Keillor At His Best.......2005-10-26

This is one of my favorite Keillor CD's. It reminds one of a more simple, peaceful and happy time.

The Great Garrison Does it Again.......2004-06-24

After shuffling this CD around for some time (I had sort of "inherited" it from my father, and just hadn't gotten around to listening to it), I finally gave it a go on the stereo...and was utterly delighted. Here is a wonderful example of Keillor's work - warmly poking fun at his home state, making his classic commentary on Lutheranism, and peeking a little into his past. It makes for great comedy, and wonderful listening.

Let's go through this sequentially, shall we? The "Whoopi Ti-Yi-Yo" piece is great - the song about a humorist's work, set to cattle-rustling music is such a clever concept, you'll have to hear it for yourself. Just the fact that he mentions his "hand-carved, hand-tooled ballpoint" makes it an instant Keillor classic. The "Sons of Knute", set to Grieg's Homage March is wonderful, as well - such silly lyrics ("Sons of Knute, marching to freedom...") set to such a noble composition - it's a marriage made in heaven. "The Young Lutheran's Guide to the Orchestra" will surely go down as one of the great Keillor works - it's pure genius. His description of each instrument's sound, and what one should associate it with, is guaranteed to draw laughter from the stodgiest curmudgeon. And, of course, the analysis of each instrument's player - priceless. "The Radio Announcer" is classic Keillor nostalgia, touched with hilarity, and bittersweet memory - the outcome of his college radio career is absolutely knee-slapping. Finally, the "Song of the Exiles" shows Keillor at his best - almost hypnotizing in his ability to capture in words the character of a place, time and surrounding experience. Here is where his work truly shines, and it is the perfect way to wind up the album. Through it all, the Minnesota Orchestra accompanies beautifully, enhancing perfectly Keillor's written word. Everything falls into place seamlessly.

I can honestly say that this CD is among my top twenty, and is never far from my stereo. It fits my every mood, and I never tire of it. If you're a fan of Keillor, it's a must-have. If you're new to his work, here's a good place to start.

Gentle, Tasteful Humor.......2003-04-17

Heard "Young Lutheran's Guide to the Orchestra" on the radio and just had to have it. Along with this great cut, discovered other material in the same great vein as Keillor's other stuff.

"The Radio Announcer" piece is but one such example, here his story of young college kid who wants to impress Renee, but finds future life's work in so doing. "And now, without commerical intervention, J.S. Bach's St. Matthew Passion" Off to the library! Hilarious and entertaining.

Tracks:

In The Mood - Glenn Miller & His Orchestra
I Double Dare You - Larry Clinton & His Orchestra
Opus No.1 - Tommy Dorsey & His Orchestra
Frenesi - Artie Shaw & His Orchestra
The Donkey Serenade - Allan Jones
Body And Soul - Benny Goodman Trio
You And I - Tommy Dorsey & His Orchestra
Remember Pearl Harbor - Swing & Sway
That Old Feeling - Guy Lombardo & His Royal Canadians
(There'll Be Bluebirds Over) The White Cliffs Of Dover - Glenn Miller & His Orchestra
Goodbye - Benny Goodman & His Orchestra
I'm Gettin' Sentimental Over You - Tommy Dorsey & His Orchestra
Lullaby Of Broadway - Richard Himber & His Ritz-Carlton Orchestra
American Patrol - Glenn Miller & His Orchestra
Take The 'A' Train - Duke Ellington & His Famous Orchestra
One, Two, Three, Kick - Xavier Cugat & His Waldorf-Astoria Orchestra

Customer Reviews:

Intimate gem and a wonderful hommage.......2007-04-30

Giving the enormous genius and extensive Woody Allen's work (one of my Top Five American Directors)it is practically impossible for me to choose a favorite.
Nevertheless, "Radio Days" is Allen's movie that I enjoy the most, based on a pure emotional impulse. Here you find the perfect mix of fun and love: Allen evocative memory of his infancy is treated with such tenderness and understanding, fun and respect, that even not being born or lived in the radio era you ends loving it as the author did.
And that is precisely a great piece of art: the one that correctly connect the audience with the subject depicted.
Everything here works: the superb music selection, the link between music and situations, the mood of every scene, characters and actors, and Allen's own appearance as the narrator.
A masterpiece.

radio days.......2007-03-09

One of the few videos that I can watch over and over. A must see

Beautiful musical landscapes.......2007-01-28

I saw you last night and got that old feeling
When you came in sight I got that old feeling
The moment you came by I felt a thrill
And when you caught my eye
My heart stood still
Once again I seemed to have that old yearning
And I knew the spark of love was still burning
There'll be no new romance for me
It's foolish to start
For that old feeling is still in my heart

The score to Woody Allen's film Radio Days boasts magnificent classic songs and instrumental numbers mostly from the World War 2 era. Each song has a haunting melody to it with a quiet strength; these songs as a track set produce a stunning CD.

The CD begins with swinging big band flavored "In The Mood" by Glenn Miller and His Orchestra. The CD then turns into a mood that is even more playful with "I Double Dare You" by Larry Clinton and His Orchestra. "Opus No. 1" by Tommy Dorsey and His Orchestra follows--these three songs in succession generate a grand slam opening! Excellent!

Other classic instrumentals on this CD include "Frenesi" by Artie Shaw and His Orchestra; "Body And Soul" by The Benny Goodman Trio and "I'm Getting' Sentimental Over You" performed flawlessly by Tommy Dorsey and His Orchestra. Each instrumental track paints beautiful musical landscapes and each number brings back memories for those of us who lived through those years.

Classic vocal numbers on this CD stun you with their potency. "You And I" by Tommy Dorsey and His Orchestra opens as an instrumental and when Sinatra joins in his vocals are perfect; Sinatra never sings a superfluous note. SMILES "Remember Pearl Harbor" is equally potent and very patriotic; the lyrics order fighting soldiers to win the war at any cost and to never forget the tragedy of Pearl Harbor. Moreover, Guy Lombardo and His Royal Canadians impeccably execute "That Old Feeling," a romantic ballad with unforgettable lyrics.

The CD song stack ends with the potent "One, Two, Three, Kick" by Xavier Cugat and His Waldorf-Astoria Orchestra. The Cuban beat of this song seduces you to listen more--don't be surprised if you play this entire CD over again because just one listen won't make you sick of these fine numbers the second time around!

The liner notes give the credits for the movie and a list of the songs on the CD. I wanted an essay about the movie and its songs; but that's just not here. This is a minor disappointment.

Unfortunately, a more important disappointment exists. The tracks on the CD have too much surface noise which proves not enough care was given to digitally remaster this wonderful numbers. To be fair, perhaps they remastered these numbers with state of the art equipment in 1987 when they released this CD. They could have re-released this CD with superior remastering equipment over the last twenty years. Unfortunately, I have to take off one star for this to make this a four star review.

Overall, this CD provides not only the music from the movie Radio Days; it also helps us all appreciate the wonderful music from the World War 2 era. I recommend this CD for fans of classic pop vocals. Fans of motion picture soundtracks will be very pleased with this album as well.

Great Music.......2007-01-12

I bought this movie for a friend for Christmas and ended up watching it with them. I'm not a big Woody Allen fan, but the story was very well done and kept me interested. What I really loved was all the music. All around a good movie. Enjoy

This was a gift.......2007-01-12

My friend has raved about this movie. Of course she relates this movie to her growing up years in New York. She has shown it to several of her friends. This was a good choice as a gift for her.

Average customer rating:

I waited for this for five years
Excellent collection but BIG PUBLISHING MISTAKE!
ONE OF LLOYD WEBBER'S BEST COMPILATIONS, DESPITE A FEW FLAWS
SUCH MAGICAL MUSIC OF THE NIGHT!
A Must Have for Sir Andrew fans

Andrew Lloyd Webber: Now & Forever
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Decca Broadway
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

Gold: The Definitive Hits Collection
The Very Best Of Andrew Lloyd Webber: The Broadway Collection
Evita (Original London Cast)
Andrew Lloyd Webber - The Royal Albert Hall Celebration
Andrew Lloyd Webber - Masterpiece (Collector's Edition) (Bonus CD)

ASIN: B00005R5UJ
Release Date: 2001-11-20

Tracks:

Jesus Christ Superstar: Overture - Andrew Lloyd Webber
Jesus Christ Superstar: Everything's Alright - Yvonne Elliman/Murray Head/Ian Gilllan
Jesus Christ Superstar: I Don't Know How To Love Him - Yvonne Elliman
Jesus Christ Superstar: Gethsemane (I Only Want To Say) - Steve Balsamo
Jesus Christ Superstar: Superstar - Murray Head
Evita: Oh What A Circus/Sing You Fools - Antonio Banderas
Evita: I'd Be Surprisingly Good For You - Elaine Paige/Joss Ackland
Evita: Another Suitcase In Another Hall - Barbara Dickson
Evita: Don't Cry For Me Argentina - Julie Covington
Evita: High Flying, Adored - Mandy Patinkin/Patti LuPone
Cats: The Jellicle Ball - Andrew Lloyd Weber
Cats: Memory - Elaine Paige
Cats: Gus: The Theatre Cat - Susan Jane Tanner/John Mills
Cats: Mr Mistoffelees - Paul Nicholas
Song And Dance: Take That Look Off Your Face - Marti Webb
Song And Dance: Tell Me On A Sunday - Marti Webb
Song And Dance: Unexpected Song - Sarah Brightman
Song And Dance: Nothing Like You've Ever Known - Sarah Brightman
Song And Dance: Introduction - Andrew Lloyd Webber
Song And Dance: Variations 1 -4 - Andrew Lloyd Webber

Tracks:

Starlight Express: Starlight Express - El Debarge
Starlight Express: Crazy - Greg Ellis/Reva Rice/Caron Cardelle/Samantha Lane/Voyd
Starlight Express: Next Time You Fall In Love - Reva Rice/Greg Ellis
Starlight Express: I Am The Starlight - Lon Satton/Ray Shell
Starlight Express: Light At The End Of The Tunnel - The Company
Requiem: Hosanna - Placido Domingo
Requiem: Pie jesu - Sarah Brightman/Paul Miles-Kingston
The Phantom Of The Opera: The Phantom Of The Opera - Michael Crawford/Sarah Brightman
The Phantom Of The Opera: The Music Of The Night - Michael Crawford
The Phantom Of The Opera: All I Ask Of You - Sarah Brightman/Steve Barton
The Phantom Of The Opera: Entr'acte - Andrew Lloyd Webber
The Phantom Of The Opera: Masquerade - The Company
The Phantom Of The Opera: Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again - Sarah Brightman
Aspects Of Love: Aspects Of Aspects - Orchester Der Vereinigten Buehnen Wien
Aspects Of Love: Love Changes Everything - Michael Ball
Aspects Of Love: Seeing Is Believing - Michael Ball/Ann Crumb
Aspects Of Love: The First Man You Remember - Kevin Colson/Diana Morrison
Aspects Of Love: Anything But Lonely - Sarah Brightman
Aspects Of Love: Chanson D'Enfance - Sarah Brightman

Tracks:

Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat: Any Dream Will Do - Jason Donovan
Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat: Joseph's Coat - Maria Friedman/Richard Attenborough/Donny Osmond
Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat: Close Every Door - Donny Osmond
By Jeeves: Travel Hopefully - John Scherer/Martin Jarvis/Don Stephenson
By Jeeves: When Love Arrives - Steven Pacey/Diana Morrison
By Jeeves: Half A Moment - Sarah Brightman
Sunset Boulevard: With One Look - Glenn Close
Sunset Boulevard: New Ways To Dream - Glenn Close/Alan Campbell
Sunset Boulevard: The Perfect Year - Glenn Close/Alan Campbell
Sunset Boulevard: Sunser Boulevard - Alan Campbell
Sunset Boulevard: As If We Never Said Goodbye - Glenn Close
Whistle Down The Wind: Whistle Down The Wind - James Graeme/Lottie Mayor
Whistle Down The Wind: Cold - Everly Brothers
Whistle Down The Wind: No Matter What - Children/Adult Chorus
Whistle Down The Wind: The Nature Of The Beast - Marcus Lovett/Lottie Mayor
The Beautiful Game: Overture - Andrew Lloyd Webber
The Beautiful Game: The Beautiful Game - The Company
The Beautiful Game: Our Kind Of Love - Hannah Waddingham
The Beautiful Game: Dont Like You - Josie Walker/David Shannon
The Beautiful Game: Let Us Love In Peace - Josie Walker/Omagh Youth Community Choir

Tracks:

Oh What A Circus - David Essex
Memory - Betty Buckley
The Phantom Of The Opera - Sarah Brightman/Steve Harley
All I Ask Of You - Sarah Brightman/Cliff Richard
Love Changes Everything - Michael Ball
Any Dream Will Do - Donny Osmond
Amigos Para Siempre (Friends For Life) - Sarah Brightman/Jose Carreras
As If We Never Said Goodbye - Barbra Streisand
The Perfect Year - Dina Carroll
With One Look - Petula Clark
You Must Love Me - Madonna
The Heart Is Slow To Learn - Kiri Te Kanawa
A Kiss Is A Terrible Thing To Waste - The Metal Philharmonic Orchestra
Whistle Down The Wind - Tina Arena
No Matter What - Boyzone
The Vaults Of Heaven - Tom Jones
Try Not To Be Afraid - Boy George
Pie Jesu - Charlotte Church

Tracks:

Make Believe Love - Wes Sands
Down Thru' Summer - Ross Hannaman
I'll Give All My Love To Southend - Ross Hannaman
Believe Me I Will - Sacha Distel
Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (1969 Radio Luxembourg Commercial) - Joseph Consortium/Pete Murray
Try It And See - Rita Pavone
Come Back Richard Your Country Needs You - Time Rice And The Webber Group
Goodbye Seattle - Paul Raven
John 19:41 - The Andrew Lloyd Webber Orchestra
What A Line To Go Out On - Yvonne Elliman
Disillusion Me - Gary Band
The Ballad Of Robert And Peter - Tim Rice
Christmas Dream - Maynard Williams
It's Only Your Lover Returning/All Through My Crazy And Wild Days/Don't Cry For Me Argentina - Julie Covington
It's Easy For You (1977 Jungle Room Session Version) - Elvis Presley
Magdalena - Tony Christie
Buenos Aires - The Roja Rockers
Pollicle Dogs And Jellicle Cats - Andrew Lloyd Webber
Mungojerrie And Rumpleteazer (Live At The Sydmonton Festival 1980) - Gemma Craven
I Could Have Given You More - Petula Clark
I've Been In Love Too Long - Marti Webb
Benedicite - The Stephen Hill Singers

Album Description

Disc 1: Selections from Jesus Christ Superstar, Evita, Cats, and Song and Dance

Disc 2: Selections from Starlight Express, Requiem, Phantom of the Opera, and Aspects of Love

Disc 3: Selections from Joseph nad the Amaziong Technicolor Dreamcoat, By Jeeves, Sunset Boulevard, Whistle Down the Wind, and The Beautiful Game

CD 4: 1. "Oh What a Circus" --David Essex 2. "Memory" - Betty Buckleey 3. "The Phantom of the Opera" -Sarah Brightman, Steve Harley 4. "All I Ask of You" --Sarah Brightman, Cliff Richard 5. "Love Changes Everything"--Michael Ball 6. "Any Dream Will Do"--Donny Osmond 7. "Amigos Para Siempre (Friends for Life)"--Sarah Brightman, Jose Caerras 8. "As if We Never Said Goodbye"--Barbra Streisand 9. "The Perfect Year"--Dina Carroll 10. "With One Look" --Petula Clark 11. "You Must Love Me" 12. "The Heart Is Slow To Learn" --Kiri Te Kanawa 13. "Whistle Down the Wind"--Tina Arena 14. "A Kiss Is a Terrible Thing To Waste"--The Metal Philharmonic 15. "No Matter What"--Boyzone 16. "The Vaults of Heaven"--Tom Jones and Sounds of Blackness 17. "Try Not To Be Afraid"--Boy George 18. "Pie Jesu"--Charlotte Church

Disc 5: (All tracks available for the first time) 1. "Make Believe Love"--Wes Sands 2. "Down Thru' Summer"--Ross Hannaman 3. "I'll Give All My Love to Southend"--Ross Hannaman 4. "Believe Me I Will"--Sacha Distel 5. "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat: 1969 Luxembourg Radio Commercial--The Jospeh Consortium, Pete Murray 6. "Try It and See"--Rita Pavone 7. "Come Back Richard Your Country Needs You"--Tim Rice and the Webber Group 8. "Goodbye Seattle"-- Paul Raven 9. "John 19:41"--The Andrew Lloyd Webber Orchestra 10. "What a Line To Go Out On"--Yvonne Elliman 11. "Disillusion Me" --Gary Bond 12. "The Ballad of Robert and Peter"--Tim Rice 13. "Christmas Dream" --Maynard Williams 14. "It's Only Your Lover Returning/All through My Wild and Crazy Days/Don't Cry for Me Argentina--Julie Covington 15. "It's Easy for You" (1977 Jungle Room Session version)--Elvis Presley 16. "Magdalena"--Tony Christie 17. "Buenos Aires"--The Rioja Rockers 18. "Pollicle Dogs and Jellicle Cats"--Andrew Lloyd Webber original demo 19. "Mungojerrie and Rumpleteazer" (Live at Sydmonton Festival 1980)-Gemma Craven 20. "I Could Have Given You More"--Petula Clark 21. "I've Been in Love Too Long"--Marti Webb 22. "Benedicte"-- Stephen Hill Singers

Customer Reviews:

I waited for this for five years.......2006-06-30

Between Amazone, Ebay and Napster, I don't usually buy CDs anymore, and I usually wait till I can buy them cheaper "new and used". When this set came out, I was excited, mainly by Disc 5, but wasn't going to spend $70 on it. I waited till it was cheap enough, and got it for Father's day this year.
It was worth the wait.

The concept is great. The packaging is great. The recording is great. Disc five is really cool for an ALW aficionado. There are a few real gems on it; my favorites are Petula Clark's "I Could Have Given You More" and "Benedicite."
I've always thought "Gus the Theatre Cat" made a great medley on the piano with "Unexpected Song" and "I DOn't Know How to Love Him," but wished there was an alternate lyric to match the other two songs. Now that I know there *is*, and it's a good lyric, it's a dream come true.
The melody of "Benedicite" is one of my favorites from _Sunset_ (the book mis-identifies it as "SUrrender"; it's actually "The Lady's Paying" and "Eternal Youth is Worth a Little Suffering"). The lyrics are the canticle from Daniel 3, which comes up every odd Sunday in the Divine Office, so it's nice to have cool music to sing it with.

I haven't bought _By Jeeves_ or _THe Beautiful Game_ yet, to it was great to sample them.

There are other parts of the CD taht aren't found in my collection. I like CD 4 "The Hits."

But the selections on CDs 1-3 don't make sense.

First, any self-respecting ALW fan has the Original London Cast of _Phantom_, so six tracks are totally useless. Why not draw from the Canadian cast with Colm Wilkinson? Or pull out some obscure recordings never published.

Why two different tracks with Michael Ball singing "Love Changes Everything", yet they're hardly any different?

On Disc 5 is "It's Only Your Lover Returning," sung by Julie Covington. It's an early draft of the song (Lloyd Webber and Rice went through several suggested titles) and quite nice. The very thing one expects on a Boxed Set.
So why have the Julie Covington "Don't Cry for Me" on disc 1?? The only difference is a few words, but it's otherwise identical. Why not Elaine Paige or Patti Lupone or Madonna?

The _Evita_ section is otherwise the best, choosing a sample from each major recording, though I'd have chosen slightly differently (as above).

There is a great selection of "Mungojerrie and Rumpleteazer" from the Sydmonton festival, using the original music that was changed when _Cats_ went to Broadway_. It would have been nice if they'd included more recordings from Sydmonton, like the original lyric of "All I Ask of You" shown on the second DVD to the _Phantom_ movie.

With so many great actress-singers who've played Norma Desmond, why does the collection beat us over the head with Glenn Close?

Paul Miles Kingston must be set for life in royalties, for the number of albums the original recording of "Pie Jesu" has appeared on. "Amigos Para Siempre" is nice, but it reminds me of Shari Lewis's "The Song that Doesn't End," especially when it's been used on so many compilations.

In short, this is a great collection for the obscure material, if you can get it cheap. But for a boxed set, it's a poor sampling, drawn mostly from the most familiar recordings.

Excellent collection but BIG PUBLISHING MISTAKE! .......2006-01-10

Please beware they made a mistake on this. It's actually the shortened Ray Shell version of STARLIGHT EXPRESS from the original 1984 London cast - NOT the El Debarge single from 1987 like it says on the box. I don't know how they let that goof pass. Sorry to Ray Shell. Having said that, this is an outstanding compilation of Lloyd Webber's greatest hits.

ONE OF LLOYD WEBBER'S BEST COMPILATIONS, DESPITE A FEW FLAWS.......2005-03-21

Regardless of the fact that some of his latest efforts (most notably, The Woman in White) are disappointing, there can be little doubt that Andrew Lloyd Webber is one of the greatest composers ever to work in the musical theatre. Ever since his "Jesus Christ Superstar" hit the stage in the early 70-is, it was clear that the conception and perception of musicals are never going to be the same again. Many of his songs became standards not only in the theatre history, but also as tops on the charts. Even though he's British, his influence on the shape of the modern musical theatre expanded over the West End boundaries long ago and has thus made an enormous impact on Broadway. Two of his shows ("Cats" and "The phantom of the opera") hold the record as two the longest running shows in the history of Broadway. He has also been the only composer to have three of his shows running at Broadway concurrently. Some of his awards include three Grammies, a Golden Globe, an Oscar and a bunch of Tony awards. But perhaps most of all, Lloyd Webber is responsible for bringing the musicals and the theatre appealing to the wide audiences, who in different circumstances would not consider seeing a musical. The secret of his success is probably the mixture of beautiful and catchy melodies, interesting subject matter (though some, like Starlight Express, are too thin) and grandiose staging.

Over the years many compilations of his work have emerged. In the late 80-is and early 90-is it was the "Encore" series and lately the one-disc collection called "Gold". The one in question here can be considered one of the best currently on the market. First, it includes a 3-disc selections from all of his shows, minus the latest one, i.e., "The Woman in White", which, considering the triviality of the score, is no great lost. The fourth disc covers some of his most known songs sung by the famous artists. Then, there is the fifth disc with previously unreleased material, most of which are the songs ALW wrote with Tim Rice for various artists during the 70-is. The disks are all neatly packed in a hardcover book that features 67 pages of pictures and text with information about each of ALW's shows. One of the other assets here is the perfect sound quality, since all of the tracks have been digitally remastered.

Here are my basic impressions and comments regarding the material on the discs:

* Disc #1 has the selections from "Jesus Christ Superstar", "Evita", "Cats" and "Song & Dance". The Superstar material mostly comes from the Concept Recording. Although the songs sound beautiful as always, their orchestration is a bit dated now. Only Steve Balsamo's "Gethsemane" from the 1996 revival cast has a modern rock sound. "Evita" comes with the material from all of the major recordings: London, Broadway and the movie productions, as well as the Concept album. No objections here; since this is one of ALW's most satisfying works, every song is just perfect, although Patti LuPone, the Broadway and overall the best Evita, is left with only a couple of lines. With the selections from "Cats", however, I have some doubts. A plus to the choice of the "Jellicle ball" impressive orchestral sequence from the 1998 movie version and "Mister Mistoffelees" from the 1981 London cast. One of the best known ALW's songs, "Memory", also comes from that album. It's a pretty version and Elaine Paige's rendition cannot be matched, but why include this when the definite version, featuring an 80-piece orchestra and Elaine Paige with much better interpretation, can be found in the same movie version. Thusly, one has to buy Elaine Paige's latest 2-disc compilation "Centre Stage: The very best of Elaine Paige" to get that one. And "Gus the theatre cat" is more a recital than a song, so there was not much point in including that. Marti Webb brings her vocal charm to the "Song & Dance" sequence, Sarah Brightman sings "Unexpected song" with her famous soprano, but as much as I like her version, Bernadette Peters, who was in this show on Broadway is strangely left out here.

* Disc # 2 starts with "Starlight Express". This was never one of my favorite ALW's shows; the plot is even lighter than in "Cats" and the 1984 original cast recording is terribly dated. Yet, here we have one terrific duet, "I am starlight" from the original together with three songs from the later revivals and it seems that fresh orchestrations were just the thing Starlight needed. My favorite remains a touchy ballad, "Next time you fall in love". "Requiem" is the most solemn of all ALW's compositions, written in 1985 to commemorate the death of his father. Placido Domingo's tenor rides together with the chorus all the way through the strong "Hosanna", only to be joined by Sarah Brightman in the final moments of this song. She then gives an echoing deliverance of "Pie Jesu". What can be said of ALW's next show, "The Phantom of the Opera"? A phenomenon in its own right, it's easy to see from the six numbers included here why this is one of the best and most beloved musicals of all time. The cast, the music, the story - everything is perfect. Although "Aspects of love" was never a popular hit, it does have some of the most beautiful love melodies ALW has ever written. "Love changes everything" sung by Michael Ball is probably one of the best tunes ever about love. The rest of the selected material here has a dreamy love flavor and the melodies find their way into your brain in the best Lloyd Webber way.

* ALW's first musical, "Joseph and the amazing Technicolor dreamcoat" was more successful in its revival form than the original from the 70-is. The three songs included here are sung by the show stars, Jason Donovan and Donny Osmond. Maria Friedman was not a lucky choice to play the narrator, as the track from the 1998 movie version shows. "By Jeeves" was ALW's only big flop when it came to the stage in the 70-is. The 1995 revival sounds much better though, full of funny numbers in the best manner of the musical comedy. "Travel hopefully" remains one of the show's highlights on this compilation. "Sunset Boulevard" comes next. "Sunset" remains for me one of Webber's best scores; lush and beautiful. I listen to the original cast recording with Patti LuPone all the time. However, here most of the songs are performed by Glenn Close. A big mistake. If you've ever listened the American premiere recording with her, you'll know what I am talking about. She may have a strong stage presence, but her vocal abilities are too limited, and her aggressive approach to the role lacks any subtlety. Therefore, the two big numbers from this show, "With one look" and "As if we never said goodbye" are ruined by the fact she can't sing. The same goes for the American Joe Gillis, who was played by Alan Campbell. Luckily, Patti LuPone and Kevin Anderson, the original Norma and Joe from the London production, make their brief entrance here with the "Perfect year"; enough to show how better they are. The funny thing is, on the jacket and inside of it, Glenn Close and Alan Campbell are credited as performers in this song as well. If this was a mistake on ALW's part, it was a good one. The next ALW's show, "Whistle down the wind" was never a critic's dear and yet the audiences rushed in to see it in London. The score brings back ALW to his rock and roll roots of the seventies and the story is quite interesting. But the selections here are not the happiest, since the cast recording boasts with much better songs. And finally, "The Beautiful Game". Again, we have one of those ALW's shows that is worth in its individual parts rather than as a whole. "Our kind of love" and "Let us love in peace" are two catchy ballads. The latter is a nice amalgam version not available elsewhere. The two other tracks here I could live without.

* Disc # 4 has the songs from all the above shows performed by different artists. The assembled tracks have their pros and cons. For example, we have some previously unreleased stuff, like Dame Kiri Te Kanawa's operettic rendition of "The heart is slow to learn", or a stunning and epic "A kiss is a terrible thing to waste" from "Whistle down the wind", performed by The Metal Philharmonic Orchestra. Then again, what was the point in including almost identical tracks as the ones on the previous disks? So we have Michael Ball again singing "Love changes everything" with only a bit different orchestration; Sarah Brightman comes out again with the same Phantom duets, but only with the different male singers. It would be much more appropriate to include tracks from the Toronto Cast of the Phantom, with Colm Wilkinson. Other pop deliverances (Tina Arena's "Whistle down the wind", Barbra Streisand's "As if we never said goodbye", Boyzone's "No matter what" and many more) were wisely chosen. Patti LuPone is again nowhere to be found and Petula Clark's "With one look" sounds too worn-out.

* The last disc is probably the one that will be of most interest to Lloyd Webber aficionados. It consists of entirely previously unreleased material ALW for the most part wrote for various artists during his early years, with Tim Rice. Some of these tunes, not successful as a singles, were later used in his shows. Thus "Down thru' summer" became "Buenos Aires"in Evita, "Try it and see", an unsuccessful attempt for the Eurovision was used for "King Herod's song" in "Superstar" and so on. Some of these songs are nicely made pop songs: "Make believe love", ALW's first recorded composition, for which he provided the lyrics; "Goodbye Seattle", sung by Paul Raven, who later became Gary Glitter; "Come back Richard, your country needs you", from a never made musical, sung here by Tim Rice, or Latin flavored "Magdalena", with Tony Christie singing. My all time favorite here is a song called "It's easy for you", sung by none other than Elvis Presley himself. Lloyd Webber and Rice sent him a demo recording that he accepted and recorded this live version a couple of weeks before he died. It's amazing to hear how his voice remained in the perfect shape. Also, there is a track of Andrew Lloyd Webber singing "Policle dogs and Jellicle cats" while plying the piano. His voice doesn't sound bad at all.

Taken as a whole, this compilation makes a perfect birthday or Christmas present to any fan of Andrew Lloyd Webber shows, or just anybody interested in some of the best tunes from the modern era of the musical theatre; despite the flaws I mentioned above. To the former, it may just be the final addition for the Andrew Lloyd Webber collection.

SUCH MAGICAL MUSIC OF THE NIGHT!.......2003-01-19

"Evita." "Sunset Blvd." "Starlight Express." "Jesus Christ Superstar." "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat." "Requiem." "Aspects of Love." The man who is the most recognized composer in the history of the musical theatre, the man who has won more Tonys than any other composer, the man who boasts the best-selling show of all time ("The Phantom of the
Opera") and the longest-running show of all time ("Cats"), the man whose homes are filled with three Grammys, five Oliviers, a Golden Globe, and Oscar and too many other honors and hosannas to mention, the man knighted in 1992 certainly doesn't need an introduction. Now Decca Broadway pays tribute to Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber with "Now and Forever," a spectacular 5-CD set compiled and produced by Sir Andy himself. It's cheaper than a
ticket to "The Producers" ... and more much exciting. This treasure trove contains highlights from all of Webber's shows, and a bonus disc of tunes sung by Betty Buckley, Barbara
Streisand, Jose Carreras, Boy George, Charlotte Church, Madonna, Tom Jones, Petula Clark, even Elvis! A must for lovers of theatre---and good music.

A Must Have for Sir Andrew fans.......2002-05-21

This five-CD collection of Andrew Lloyd Webber's career is fantastic. It leaves virtually no stone unturned. I have no doubt that diehard Webber fans will love this, especially for the 5th disc entitled "From the Vaults." This disc alone is worth the price as it contains tunes never before heard by the typical fan. Who knew Elvis did a Lloyd Webber tune?!? I didn't! Also the tune "Benedictine" which the composer wrote for his most recent marriage is not only pretty, but it has the same medley as "The Lady's Paying" from "Sunset Blvd." which I found highly enjoyable. Another great track is the composer himself singing a cut song from "Cats" entitled "Pollicle Dogs and Jellicle Cats" which has the same tune as "Jellicle Songs for Jellicle Cats," but to hear Sir Andrew sing is a blast...he sounds a lot like Al "Year of the Cat" Stewart.
The cuts from the musicals are great but are likely owned by ALW fans as they are on the original cast albums. And I'm glad that there were tunes included from the composers most recent efforts which have yet to make it beyond London (Whistle Down the Wind, Beautiful Game).
My only complaint is the inclusion of way too many tracks by Sarah Brightman. She must've received a great divorce settlement that included having tunes on any ALW collection until the end of time!! Her interpretations of some of the tunes were limp and uninspired. I would've much rather heard casts from around the world rather than yet another song by this disdainful soprano! How about Colm Wilkinson's version of "Music of the Night" from the original Canadian cast of "Phantom"? Or Michael Crawford's version of "Unexpected Song"? What? No Betty Buckley from "Sunset Blvd."? And of course there are songs you KNOW are going to be on the collection before you even listen to it as they have been on EVERY ALW collection for the past decade or so.
A great collection but too much Sarah Brightman!

Average customer rating:

Name that tune!
Lush instrumental music with a modern interpretation.

Happy Radio Days
Michel Legrand
Manufacturer: Elektra / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Bebop General | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music

Hard Bop | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music

General | Jazz | Styles | Music

Smooth Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music

General | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music
ASIN: B000009MVN
Release Date: 1998-08-18

Tracks:

Tico Tico
Charmaine
The Typewriter
Where Or When
Holiday For Strings
Smoke Gets In Your Eyes
Swedish Rhapsody
Blue Tango
Three Coins In The Fountain
Delicado
O Mein Papa
Cherry Pink And Apple Blossom White
The Song Of Moulin-Rouge
Peanut Vendor
Fascination
Begin The Beguine
September Song
Eternally

Customer Reviews:

Name that tune!.......2002-01-10

O.K., so you're forty-ish or fifty-ish and nostalgia is a creeping threat to your mental health. Insidiously, snatches of old tv shows or radio tunes suddenly enter your head, at odd hours of the day. You find yourself humming - OUT LOUD - and your loved ones are annoyed and perfect strangers concerned. "WHAT IS THAT TUNE?" Well, you might find out if you buy this disc. French composer ("Umbrellas of Cherbourg," etc.) and arranger Michel Legrand is a fellow sufferer and he did something about it. He started looking for recordings of some of his favorite radio memories from the 1950s (and 1940s - O.K. so he's a little older than us!) and, when he discovered the records were out of print, he persuaded the fine, adventuresome people at Erato (OK, OK, the vast AOL/Time-Warner media empire, really) to let him record the things all over again. My favorite is "Holiday for Strings" by David Rose. I used to hear that piece again and again in the 60's, usually to introduce the "matinee movie" on the local independent TV station. Never knew what it was. Always wondered. Drove me nuts. Now I know. I'm still nuts but, hey, at least I've got this nifty CD! Do yourself a favor and order it. Call it "lounge classics" and indulge your ears. You won't regret it!

Lush instrumental music with a modern interpretation........1998-09-14

In this album, arranger and conductor Michel Legrand presents a modern interpretation of 18 musical standards that were popular in radio broadcasts in the wake of the World War 2. If you like lush instrumental music with muted brass and the ear-kissing sounds of magical violins, all with a modern bass beat, you will enjoy this album. The tempo varies from "drifting and dreaming" to the infectuous sounds of "toe tapping" Latin rythms. This is easy listening music that sounds great in the background or in the foreground.

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Radio Days: '70s Pop
Various Artists
Manufacturer: EMI Special Products
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Pop | Styles | Music

Soft Rock | Pop | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

General | Compilations | Rock | Styles | Music

4-for-3 Pop | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music

4-for-3 Rock | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music

4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music
ASIN: B00000IN0M
Release Date: 2003-10-06

Tracks:

You Can't Change That - Raydio
Hot Child In The City - Nick Gilder
Rolene - Moon Martin
Jeans On - David Dundas
Isn't It Time - Babys
Ebony Eyes - Bob Welch
Too Late To Turn Back Now - Cornelius Brothers & Sister Rose
This Will Be (An Everlasting Love) - Natalie Cole
Southern Nights - Glenn Campbell
Last Song - Edward Bear

Swiss Radio Days, Vol. 15: JATP Lausanne 1953

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Swiss Radio Days: Peterson & Fitzgerald

Swiss Radio Days, Vol. 15: JATP Lausanne 1953
Oscar Peterson , and Ella Fitzgerald
Manufacturer: Tcb Music
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Canada | North America | International | Styles | Music

General | Jazz | Styles | Music

Swing General | Swing Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music

General | Live Albums | Jazz | Styles | Music

Jazz | Imports | Stores | Music
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The Oscar Peterson Trio Meets Coleman Hawkins: Live in Hannover 1967
Sweet and Hot
Ella and Oscar (20 Bit Mastering)
One More: The Summary: Music of Thad Jones, Vol. 2
What's Up?: The Very Tall Band

ASIN: B000GRUO80
Release Date: 2006-10-10

Tracks:

It's Only a Papermoon
Someone To Watch Over Me
Lady Be Good
Why Don't You Do Right
You Belong To Me
A Tisket - A Tasket
St. Louis Blues
Lester Leaps In
The Surrey With the Fringe On Top
My Heart Stood Still
The Continental
Oscar's Tune
The Man I Love

Album Description

Ella Fitzgerald and Oscar Peterson remain two stellar personalities who will forever reside in the Olympic heights of jazz. This album features both of the artists performing during a Jazz at the Philharmonic concert tour in 1953, recorded by the Swiss Radio.

Customer Reviews:

Swiss Radio Days: Peterson & Fitzgerald.......2007-01-10

In the 1950's Oscar Peterson and Ella Fitzgerald were at the top of their game.Ella a first rate super jazz vocalist and Oscar a new young pianist from Canada taking the jazz world by storm. They toured together in concerts for Norman Granz's Jazz At The Philharmonic.
I was fortunate enough to see this tour at that time, and one of the highlights for me was Ella Fitzgerald's version of 'You Belong To Me' which was a 'hit song' at that time. I bought this CD because the song was included and while the impact of the song was not the same (Ella opened her concert at Symphony Hall at the time) she does it well here.
The CD is worth having, although I think Ella sounds a little tired, but with Oscar's great trio and Ella you can't beat it. Get it for your collection.

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Radio Days: '80s Easy Listening
Various Artists
Manufacturer: EMI Special Products
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

New Wave | New Wave & Post-Punk | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

General | Pop | Styles | Music

Soft Rock | Pop | Styles | Music

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4-for-3 Alternative Rock | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music

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4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music
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Big Hits of the 80's
Hard to Find 45s on CD, Volume 8: 70's Pop Classics

ASIN: B00000IN0Q
Release Date: 2003-06-24

Tracks:

Promises Promises - Naked Eyes
Suddenly Last Summer - Motels
Missing You - John Waite
When I'm With You - Sheriff
True - Spandau Ballet
The Other Guy - Little River Band
Angel Of The Morning - Juice Newton
What's Forever For - Michael Murphey Martin
More Love - Kim Carnes
Hearts - Marty Balin

Average customer rating:

Swiss Radio Days, Vol. 16
Oscar Peterson
Manufacturer: Tcb Music
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Canada | North America | International | Styles | Music

General | Jazz | Styles | Music

Swing General | Swing Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music

General | Live Albums | Jazz | Styles | Music

Jazz | Imports | Stores | Music
ASIN: B000OPQ0GO
Release Date: 2007-05-08

Tracks:

C-Jam Blues
Medley: I Cover the Waterfront/Indian Summer/Isn't This a Lovely Day
Dark Eyes
Cottontail
Tea For Two
Idaho

Album Description

A selection of legendary US jazz musicians assembled by promoter Norman Granz to take part in the 1953 edition of his notorious Jazz at the Philharmonic tours.

Average customer rating:

A worthy tribute to a bygone era of gospel music
Radio Days, an "AWESOME" project =)
One of the Greatest Gospel CD's EVER!!!

Radio Days
Cathedrals
Manufacturer: Homeland
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Gospel | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

General | Christian & Gospel | Indie Music | Stores | Music

Gospel | Christian & Gospel | Indie Music | Stores | Music
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Vol. 3-Especially for You
Vol. 1-Quartet & Brass
Symphony of Praise
Vol. 4-Master Builder
Reunion

ASIN: B000005DGR
Release Date: 1997-06-04

Tracks:

Ride That Glory Train
Mansion Over The Hilltop
Hard Trial Will Soon Be Over
Echoes From The Burning Bush
I Know My Savior Is There
A Cappella Reprise
I'm Gonna Serve My Lord
The Love Of God
The Light Of Love
I've Been With Jesus
I'm Looking For Jesus

Customer Reviews:

A worthy tribute to a bygone era of gospel music.......1999-06-11

The Cathedrals show just how much the Lord as blessed them with talent and heart with the recording "Radio Days". The Cathedrals start with "Ride that Glory Train" and never look back. I was amazed at the incredible bass singing on "Echos from the Burning Bush" and to go to the other extreme with the high tenor parts of "I Know my Savior is There" If you only buy one album by the the Cathedrals in your lifetime, make sure it is "Radio Days".

Radio Days, an "AWESOME" project =).......1999-06-08

Radio Days is a favorite of mine since the very first time I heard the very first song! My favorite song is "Mansion Over the Hilltop." This project is a must in a collection and I'm sure if you get it you'll LOVE listening to and singing along with "the guys"... almost as much as me! The Cathedral Quartet... the best in Southern Gospel Music!

One of the Greatest Gospel CD's EVER!!!.......1998-07-27

The Cathederal's have been singing great Southern Gospel music for years, and let me tell you, they know how it's done! This CD is well sung, well programmed, and well produced. Every song just shines. This recording is a true doccument of great living legends. A deffinate MUST HAVE!

Average customer rating:

A Half Hearted Collection
The 80's
Can't figure out what's on this CD? Here's the list:

Radio Days: '80s New Wave
Various Artists
Manufacturer: EMI Special Products
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

New Wave | New Wave & Post-Punk | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

New Wave | Compilations | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

General | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

Dance Pop | Compilations | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

General | Pop | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

General | Compilations | Rock | Styles | Music

4-for-3 Alternative Rock | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music

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Millennium: 80's New Wave Party
More Pure 80's
Pure 80's
I Want My New Wave
Just Can't Get Enough: New Wave Hits of the '80s, Vol. 11

ASIN: B00000IN0R
Release Date: 2003-10-06

Tracks:

It's My Life - Talk Talk
Words - Missing Persons
Kids In America - Kim Wilde
She Blinded Me With Science - Thomas Dolby
Turning Japanese - Vapors
Don't Cry - Asia
Call Me - Blondie
Sunglasses At Night - Corey Hart
Lunatic Fringe - Red Rider
Too Shy - Kajagoogoo

Customer Reviews:

A Half Hearted Collection.......2007-03-24

Ten measly tracks is all you get on this halfhearted collection of 80's new wave hits. Only two of the songs, "Turning Japanese" by the Vapors and "Call Me" by Blondie are essential and one track, "Don't Cry" by Asia doesn't even belong here as it doesn't really qualify as New Wave but more as the type of arena rock that punk new wave was supposed to be rebelling against.

The 80's.......2007-01-02

It's not the best quality. It sounds as if it's from the radio.

Can't figure out what's on this CD? Here's the list:.......1999-11-24

I ordered this CD without having a clue as to what was on it (with the exception of the track by Kajagoogoo). Luckily, it's pretty good! Here's the 10 tracks found on the CD: "It's My Life" by Talk Talk; "Words" by Missing Persons; "Kids in America" Kim Wilde; "She Blinded Me with Science" Thomas Dolby; "Turning Japanese" by the Vapors; "Don't Cry" by Asia (which I still don't recognize); "Call Me" by Blondie; "Sunglasses At Night" Corey Hart; "Lunatic Fringe" by Red Rider; and "Too Shy" by Kajagoogoo. And, the sound quality is actually really good! Not a bad CD for 6 bucks. :)

Album Review:

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